Beijing is a beautiful city to explore, and you might need more than 72 hours to see it; however, even in 72 hours, you can do and see a lot. For us, Beijing was a stop on the way to Japan, but we could explore a little thanks to the 72-hour visa-free transit policy. And you can as well. It takes some planning and involves a lot of waddling, but it’s worth it. Prepare your feet and get some comfy shoes.
Not sure about you, but when I visit a new city, on the first day, I want to see as much as possible. Preferably all, but it will not be possible if you have an 8+ hour flight after you. Please don’t push it; the city will also be here tomorrow. I wish I would listen to my advice. 😅
72-Hour Visa-Free Transit
You can stay for up to 72 hours (3 days) in 18 China cities without a visa. It is thanks to the visa-free transit policy. There are some requirements – you must come from one of the 53 countries eligible (see the Chinese embassy site in your country). Also, your flight can only stop in one Chinese city, meaning you must enter and exit from the same city (except in cities where the 144-hour visa-free transit is available).
When you land at the Beijing International Airport, get in line to apply for the 72-hour visa after exiting the plane. Do not worry; follow the crowd of foreigners as we did. It is a stand with a big sign. You won’t miss it.
Take one of the forms (the blue one) and fill it out as you stand in line. If you hurry from your plane, the line can be short, but as more and more planes land, it will get bigger. Many use this option to enter and enjoy China.
There is also a police officer who goes through the line and checks whether everything is filled out correctly before you proceed to the officers, which will stamp your passport. The line is going quite fast. Make sure to scan your fingerprint in one of the automatic machines nearby. It will give you some number that is needed for the visa application.
After you receive your stamp and think you are free to go – don’t get too excited. You must go through customs before entering the country, which is at least an hour-long process. As you stand in line, it’s confusion and impatience all around you, but you will get through after an hour or more. And now you can waddle around Beijing.
What can you manage to see in 72 hours?
The answer is a lot, but you will only manage a little compared to what the city offers. Here is what you can see within 72 hours in Beijing.
#1: The Temple of Heaven
This was the first stop we made, and it is one of the best places to see. I put it on the must-see when in Beijing.
It is a complex of religious buildings located in the southeastern part of the city with a vast park (later, we found out Beijing had a lot of parks).
Again, the best time to visit is in the morning as only a few people will be there. You can see the locals hanging out there, exercising, playing games, and enjoying the day.
Originally it was called The Temple of Heaven and Earth when first built, but later, when enlarged, it was renamed. Read more here.
#2: Tiananmen Square
Another famous landmark Beijing has to offer and once again a must-go for first visitors is Tiananmen Square. The square is enormous. It is is 765 x 282 meters (215.730 m2 or 53,31 acres).
Tiananmen, when translated, means “Gate of Heavenly Peace” and is linked to many important historical events.
#3: The Great Wall of China
Stopping in China and not visiting the Great Wall; it’s like you have not been in China at all. It’s a universal law to stop at the Great Wall when you are here.
Note that there are various areas of the wall opened that you can visit; one such area is also in Beijing. Meaning you can use your 72-hour visa permit. I waddled the Mutianyu part, and I can only recommend it.
#4: The Olympic Park
Being an ancient and traditional city, the Olympic Park gives Beijing a futuristic vibe. It was built for the 2008 Beijing Olympic games, and it is the largest urban park in Beijing (an area of 680 hectares), so again a lot of waddling around.
Overall it takes up to 2 hours to waddle around the whole area, but we choose to see the most iconic sites – like the Bird’s Nest or the National Aquatics Center.
#5: Hutong
Beijing is especially famous for the Hutong, a narrow street or alley formed by traditional courtyard residences. It will take you back into the past and is an experience you should not leave out on your first time in Beijing.
Many Hutongs have been designated as protected in an attempt to preserve this aspect of Chinese cultural history.
#6: The Forbidden City
Not forbidden anymore – it is the largest ancient palace in the world and sits in the heart of Beijing, behind Tiananmen Square.
It was home to 24 Chinese emperors, and today it is the most popular single-site tourist attraction, so be prepared for many people.
#7: Jingshan Park
It is an imperial park and was formerly a private garden attached to the grounds of the Forbidden City. It dates back a thousand years.
The park is beautiful to waddle around, but I loved the view from the top.
#8: Beihai Park
Also known as the Winter Palace is just one of the countless public parks you can enter. It was formerly part of the imperial gardens and was built in the 11th century.
Many locals spend their time there, and you will see them engaging in many activities, from singing and dancing to calligraphy.
Even though we saw much more within the 72 hours we stayed in Beijing, these are the top 8 sites that are simply a must and will give you an excellent grasp on the city.
